The Worthing Lido

The Worthing Lido is proper seaside nostalgia done right - a 1930s Art Deco pool complex that sits right on the Sussex coast with the sea as your backdrop. You get an outdoor heated pool, a paddling pool for the little ones, and genuinely decent facilities without the pretension of some modern leisure centres. On a sunny day it's absolutely packed with families and local swimmers who clearly know a good thing when they see it.

The whole setup takes about two to three hours if you're just having a splash and a breather. It's free to enter the grounds, though you'll pay for actual swimming - current prices aren't listed on their website, so ring ahead on the day. Opening hours are 11am to 6pm daily, though I'd avoid peak times during school holidays if you value your peace and quiet.

Walkers and history buffs get something out of the building itself - the architecture is worth a look even if you're not swimming. Parents of young kids will find it miles better than an indoor pool in summer. Teenagers might find it a bit tame unless they're genuinely keen on swimming.

If you're based at one of the nearby caravan parks - Beach Park and Eastern Sands are less than three miles away - the Lido makes an easy morning or afternoon break from the park. Pair it with a walk along Worthing seafront or a fish supper from the town centre. It's not groundbreaking, but it's exactly what a seaside lido should be.